LIMPOPO –  The acting provincial police commissioner, Maj Gen Samuel Manala has ordered a full investigation into the fatal shooting of a 24-year-old man outside a tavern in Bakenburg, allegedly by an off-duty police officer.

Police spokesperson Col Malesela Ledwaba said the incident occurred in the early hours of Monday morning (April 21) in Tinmyne in the Waterberg District.

“Officers were alerted to the shooting and rushed to the scene. Upon arrival, they were informed that the victim had already been taken to hospital,” his statement read.

Ledwaba said the police found the man had succumbed to his injuries at the hospital and that preliminary information suggests the victim was transported there by the suspect – a police officer stationed at OR Tambo International Airport in Gauteng.

“The deceased and the suspect were drivers in their respective cars when they apparently had a heated confrontation, which resulted in the shooting. The suspect allegedly stopped his vehicle and took the victim to hospital. The victim had a wound on the right cheek,” Ledwaba said.

He added that the motive behind the incident remains unclear and is under investigation.

“The suspect’s official firearm has been seized as part of the ongoing investigation and the matter has been referred to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) for their further handling.”

The officer is currently detained at the Tinmyne Police Station and is expected to appear in the Mahwelereng Magistrate’s Court soon on a charge of murder.

Major General Manala has expressed his concern over the incident and reaffirmed the police service’s commitment to accountability and transparency.